Jeffrey Wendell Konishi

In Loving Memory of Jeffrey (Jeff) Wendell Konishi

April 10, 1962 – September 1, 2025

Beginnings in Colorado

Jeffrey (Jeff) Wendell Konishi was born on April 10, 1962, in Alamosa, Colorado, to Ben and Bessie Konishi. From the start, he carried with him a quiet strength, an enduring kindness, and a gentle spirit that would shape the path of his life.

A Journey of Learning and Service

Education was a guiding light for Jeff, both as a personal pursuit and as a gift he would later extend to countless others. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Northern Colorado and a Master’s degree in Information Technology from the University of Denver.

With these foundations, Jeff built a career dedicated not only to excellence but to the transformation of lives. Most recently, he served as Chief Technology Officer for Aurora Public Schools, where he worked with unwavering passion to ensure that every student, no matter their background, had access to exceptional learning opportunities. His colleagues described him as “dedicated to transformative change for 40,000 students and beyond. He lived with humility, conviction, and the unwavering belief that things could always be better.”

Before this chapter, Jeff brought vision and innovation to his roles as Director of Information for both Douglas County Libraries and the City of Amarillo, Texas, continually seeking ways to expand knowledge and possibilities.

Devotion to Family

Though his professional life was filled with purpose, Jeff’s highest devotion was always to his family, the source of his greatest joy. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Michele, and his mother, Bessie. He leaves a legacy of love in the lives of his children, Katelyn and Kyle; his stepchildren, Jaymie, Kevin, Sam, and Sydney; and his grandchildren, Mina and Beckett, who brought immeasurable light into his days. He is also survived by his brother, Mark; his sister, Pam; and a circle of nieces and nephews who will forever treasure his warmth and guidance. Jeff is reunited in peace with his father, Ben Konishi, whose memory he carried faithfully throughout his life.

Simple Joys, Lasting Love

Outside of work, Jeff embraced the simple joys that made life rich: playing and watching basketball, sharing laughter with his family, and treasuring moments with his granddaughter Mina, who affectionately knew him as “Poppi.” These joys, both ordinary and profound, radiated the love he carried for those around him.

A Legacy of Light

While Jeff leaves behind titles and achievements, he leaves a legacy woven with compassion, humility, and hope. His life stood as a testament to the belief that the world can become a better place through innovative design thinking, selfless kindness, and unyielding service to others.

Service of Remembrance

A funeral service honoring Jeff’s life will be held on Thursday, September 11, at 10:00 a.m. at Horan & McConaty, 5303 East County Line Road, Centennial, CO 80122. All who knew and loved Jeff are warmly invited to attend and celebrate a life so deeply cherished.